FX.co ★ Chicago Business Activity Slows in October

The Chicago Business Barometer declined 3.5 points to 55.3 in October 2026, coming in below expectations of 56.1 but remaining in expansion territory for a second consecutive month. The pullback largely unwound September’s gains. Supplier Deliveries dropped 10.3 points to their lowest level since February, though they stayed in expansion for the 21st straight month. Respondents described conditions as mixed, noting shorter—yet still slow—delivery times and ongoing delays from Asia. Production fell 5.2 points but continued to signal expansion, while New Orders slipped 0.6 points and remained solidly positive. Order Backlogs decreased 4.4 points, staying in contraction for the fourth consecutive month. Employment surged 10.3 points to its highest reading since April 2021, returning to expansion. Prices Paid climbed 8.9 points to their highest level since December 2021, driven by rising costs for chemical- and petroleum-based inputs. Inventories rose 4 points but continued to signal contraction.